The Introvert’s Edge: How Quiet Strength Wins on Stage

The first time I stepped onto a stage, (and if I’m being honest, sometimes even now…) I felt like an imposter. As an introvert, the spotlight felt unnatural and as a perfectionist (now in recovery if you know what I mean), I always had that nagging voice saying, “you’re not good enough…the others are better.” 

As far back as I can remember, I preferred quiet moments of reflection to boisterous gatherings, and yet, I would get the biggest rush when given the chance to speak, sing, or play my instruments in front of a crowd. Looking back, I have discovered that from that first chance to speak in the 6th grade (D.A.R.E. graduation circa 1995) and in the years since, is that introverts like me have a unique edge when it comes to public speaking. What we think of as a negative trait (introversion) is really a superpower when it comes to doing things outside of our comfort zone, like speaking!

I know, you are currently thinking, “Um, what? Did you just say that being introverted is a strength…for the stage?” Yes, I did. And let me tell you why!

Unlike extroverts who might thrive on spontaneity, we introverts often excel because of our need to feel completely prepared. For me, preparation became my secret weapon. My relationship with preparation began in the 6th grade when I joined my first band class as a clarinetist. I remember practicing for multiple hours every single day for the first year as I was learning the ins and outs of reading music, creating musical thoughts, and telling stories through my performance. This level of preparation not only boosted my confidence but also gave me the ability to silence the aforementioned pesky voice in my head and truly let myself shine. 

But it wasn’t always so simple. I still spent years navigating the nerves that accompanied solos. As I progressed and got older, the music got harder, the challenges got bigger, and the competition got fiercer. I vividly remember the pit in my stomach when my turns to perform came; the fear of making a mistake under the glaring eyes of an adjudicator or audience. It was only through adequate practice that I learned to manage my nerves and performance anxiety. I learned how to corral those feelings so that instead of holding me back, they moved out of the way so I could go forward. Repetition through practice gave me confidence, and familiarity with the music helped me overcome those nerves.

Over time (I mean lots of time…like 20+ years), I have found the right balance between preparation and spontaneity in my musical performance and in my speaking performance. While practice has always laid the foundation, leaving room for flexibility has allowed me to adapt and connect in the moment. Like many introverts, I’ve faced my fair share of stage nerves. Early on, I saw my anxiety as a barrier, but over time, I learned to view it as a sign of how much I cared about delivering a high-quality performance. I have now learned to reframe my racing thoughts and sweaty palms as energy that I can channel into my performances, and I help my clients do the same thing.

Even today, more than 30 years later, I still feel the pangs of nervousness if I believe I haven’t prepared enough, but I don’t let them stop me. They are a reminder that preparation isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about the peace of mind that comes from trusting yourself and knowing you’ve done the work.

 My 6th grade band teacher used to say something to us all the time about practice and I reflect on it often. He said, “Proper prior practice prevents poor performance.” Of all the things I have learned in 12 years of grade school, and 10ish years of college, not to mention nearly 42 years of life, this simple six-word statement is the one I remember and use daily.

As an introvert and a musician, I respect silence. I often say that the magic happens in the spaces between the notes or the words. On stage, I have learned that this natural relationship with quiet could be a powerful tool. Pausing intentionally between points not only gives me time to gather my thoughts but also gives my audience time to absorb my message and process the emotions they might feel as I share my story.

In one memorable speech, I shared the moment I learned my husband had been arrested and his struggle with drug addiction had come to its end. As I paused to let the words sink in, I noticed the room grow still—not with disinterest, but with deep engagement. Those moments of quiet created space for connection, allowing the audience to reflect on their own experiences and emotions while eagerly awaiting the next part of the story.

Introverts are often masters of authenticity. We value depth over surface-level interactions, and this preference translates beautifully on stage. When I speak, I’m not trying to be someone I’m not. What you see is what you get! I embrace my quiet strength, my calm energy and voice, my reflective nature, and my genuine desire to connect.

Audiences respond well to authenticity. They don’t need a performer; they need, and want, someone who is real. Now, this doesn’t mean I don’t have a few tricks up my sleeve for delivering attention-grabbing moments…remember, I’m a musician and I know all the tricks to take the audience on a journey with me. But as my energy is calmer than many, I am very strategic about how I use those tricks when I tell a story. The bottom line is that I’ve found that by being myself—a little quiet, a little reserved, but deeply passionate—I can inspire others to embrace their own authenticity.

If you are an introvert who dreams of speaking but feels held back by self-doubt, know this: your voice matters. Your quiet strength, your ability to listen deeply, and your capacity for meaningful connection are gifts that the world needs. 

Start small. Share your thoughts in a meeting, tell a story at a family gathering, or join a supportive speaking group. Embrace your natural tendencies and let them guide your journey to the stage. Remember, the power of your voice lies not in your volume, but in your authenticity.

Public speaking isn’t about becoming someone you’re not; it’s about stepping into who you are. As an introvert, you bring a unique perspective and quiet power that can move audiences and inspire change. Your journey and your performance will look different from that of an extrovert, but that is what makes it special!

If you’re ready to take the next step in sharing your experience or building your confidence, Book your FREE discovery call with me today. Together, we can show the world how quiet strength wins on stage. 

Until next time,

Ciao for Now!